Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe said: "Scotland Yard is an internationally recognised and highly respected brand and the architects' final designs for the building will, we hope, reflect and enhance this status."

Deputy mayor for policing and crime Stephen Greenhalgh said: "Scotland Yard is returning to its historical home in Whitehall.

"The new, smaller Met HQ will help deliver a 21st Century police force and AHMM's design, which includes a public space, will help Londoners to reconnect with the Met."